Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a long duration, it has been a profound learning experience. London is an energetic metropolis, distinguished not only by its range of housing options but also by its multicultural communities. Students have a wealth of choices at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and shared housing. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore their potential living spaces online, assess the facilities, and identify nearby public transit options.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, bustling areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s public transport system is outstanding, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating seamless navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 each day. As a result, I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting more affordable for students. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on both the distance traveled and the individual fare system of each train operator. The cost of living tends to be high near Central London’s major attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly reduced our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and akin age groups, a feat that would have been harder to accomplish with private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. London’s diverse communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, providing an intricate tapestry of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their native culture in London. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the vibrant West End of London presents an array of Chinese dining options, commercial establishments, and cultural activities. These examples illustrate just a fraction of the community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking out a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of housing opportunities, dive into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.